In a blaze of high hopes, Jos Buttler had boldly declared that England would forge new World Cup memories in 2023. However, their campaign got off to an all-too-familiar start: the daunting task of reviving their prospects following a devastating group-stage defeat.
England did have a blueprint for bouncing back from such setbacks. In 2019, their loss to Australia forced them to win four consecutive matches to claim victory in the competition. Similarly, in last year's T20 World Cup, a defeat to Ireland placed them in a similar predicament.
Nevertheless, despite drawing strength from recent history, England hadn't felt as thoroughly outmatched in a global event since 2015, when they suffered a crushing nine-wicket defeat to New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
Amidst this disappointment, Joe Root's well-crafted 77 provided some relief regarding his own form, with him stressing the importance of maintaining composure. He pointed out that even World Cup-winning sides have encountered hurdles along the way, citing England's own struggles in 2019.
Contrary to expectations of tight contests between England and New Zealand in global events, the defending champions were thoroughly dismantled. Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra, close friends from Wellington, compiled an incredible unbeaten partnership of 273 runs. England's primary frustration stemmed from their batting display, as they managed 282 for nine on a batting-friendly pitch.
The peculiar record of all 11 batsmen reaching double figures in an ODI for the first time in 4,658 matches was accompanied by a sense of missed opportunities. Only Root exceeded 43 runs, and the partnership between Root and Buttler, which took England to 188-4 in the 34th over, was the only one to surpass 40.
England's regrets extended to their batting approach, marked by moments of timidity. While they struck 21 fours and six sixes, amassing 120 runs from boundaries, Conway and Ravindra pummeled 30 fours and eight sixes, racking up 168 runs from boundaries. Several England batsmen fell victim to half-hearted shots, failing to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
England vowed to rectify these shortcomings in their upcoming matches, with Root emphasizing their intent to play more aggressively and impose pressure on opponents. They aimed to achieve imposing scores that could overwhelm the opposition.
Remarkably, New Zealand defied expectations by altering their usual playing style. Despite fielding an ostensibly imbalanced side due to injuries, they opted for just three specialist bowlers. This decision paid off as they strategically removed England's dangerous hitters, Buttler and Livingstone, in the late stages of the innings.
Unfazed by the early loss of Will Young, Conway and Ravindra exploited the fielding restrictions during the powerplay, reaching 81 for one in the first ten overs. For Conway, this performance reaffirmed his status as a potential top run-scorer in the World Cup, while Ravindra's maiden international century marked the emergence of a promising talent.
England's bowlers struggled to contain the Kiwi batsmen, with Wood and Woakes conceding a combined 100 runs in just 11 overs under the lights. Moeen Ali, Adil Rashid, and Liam Livingstone, England's spin trio, also had a tough outing, conceding 131 runs in 19.2 overs.
As the Ahmedabad evening cooled down, New Zealand continued to heat up, securing a victory that could have far-reaching implications for the tournament. While Buttler acknowledged a loss as a loss, qualification could ultimately hinge on net run rate, presenting yet another challenge for England. They now face the daunting task of winning six of their remaining eight matches to reach the semi-finals.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
In a riveting spectacle that had cricket enthusiasts on the edge of their seats, the SA20 auction in Johannesburg unfolded with a flurry of excitement. Among the many talented players up for grabs, two emerging all-rounders, Matthew Boast and Dayyaan Galiem, emerged as the undisputed stars of the show, commanding staggering bids that defied all expectations.
Matthew Boast, a mere twenty years of age and a newcomer to the cricketing scene, entered the auction with a base price of R175,000. However, his remarkable talent sparked a fierce bidding war that culminated in him being snapped up for a jaw-dropping R1.6 million. The Pretoria Capitals emerged as the victorious bidders, securing the services of this young prodigy and marking one of the most talked-about acquisitions of the day.
Dayyaan Galiem, another promising all-rounder, found himself at the center of a bidding frenzy just like Boast. With a base price of R175,000, Galiem's value soared to an astounding R1.6 million before the dust settled. His destination turned out to be the Joburg Super Kings, a team known for their dynamic approach to the game.
The Joburg Super Kings, riding high on their successful acquisitions, didn't stop there. They went on to spend an additional R850,000 each to secure the talents of Wayne Madsen, a renowned batsman from Derbyshire, and Romario Shepherd, a dynamic all-rounder from the West Indies. Both players are set to bring a wealth of experience to their squad.
Not to be outdone, the Pretoria Capitals, armed with a substantial remaining budget of R9.737 million, executed a strategic masterstroke. They added Paul Stirling, a prominent Irish opening batsman, to their roster for R425,000. Additionally, they signed wicketkeeper-batsman Kyle Verreynne for R175,000. Stirling, who previously played for the Paarl Royals, and Verreynne, formerly with the Super Kings, are now set to embark on new journeys with the Capitals.
The Capitals further bolstered their lineup by bringing back the fast bowler Daryn Dupavillon to Centurion, securing his services for R600,000.
MI Cape Town made a notable acquisition of Chris Benjamin for R175,000, while the Sunrisers Eastern Cape added the young leg-spinner Caleb Saleka to their squad for the same amount.
The Paarl Royals, in a bid to strengthen their pace attack, signed Hampshire's fast bowler John Turner for R425,000.
As cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the upcoming matches, the spotlight will undoubtedly shine on these exceptional talents, and the stage is set for these emerging stars to make their mark on the cricketing world.
Key Player Acquisitions:
Set 1: Batsmen
Joburg Super Kings: Wayne Madsen (R850,000)
Pretoria Capitals: Paul Stirling (R425,000)
MI Cape Town: Chris Benjamin (R175,000)
Set 2: Wicketkeepers
Pretoria Capitals: Kyle Verreynne (R175,000)
Paarl Royals: John Turner (R425,000)
Set 3: All-rounders
Joburg Super Kings: Dayyaan Galiem (R1.6 million)
Romario Shepherd (R850,000)
Pretoria Capitals: Matthew Boast (R1.6 million)
Set 4: Fast bowlers
Pretoria Capitals: Daryn Dupavillon (R600,000)
Set 5: Spinners
Sunrisers Eastern Cape: Caleb Saleka (R175,000)
Express Set:
Paarl Royals: Lorcan Tucker (R175,000)
Sunrisers Eastern Cape: Beyers Swanepoel (R600,000)
Durban Super Giants: Jason Smith (R175,000)
MI Cape Town: Neelan van Heerden (R175,000), Thomas Kaber (R175,000)
Rising Star Rookies:
MI Cape Town: Connor Esterhuizen
Durban's Super Giants: Bryce Parsons
Paarl Royals: Lhua-dre Pretorius
Joburg Super Kings: Ronan Hermann
Pretoria Capitals: Steve Stolk
Sunrisers Eastern Cape: Andile Simelane
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
Rugby, a sport renowned for its rugged intensity and indomitable team spirit, traces its origins back to a rather unconventional beginning. In 1823, a student by the name of William Webb Ellis, during a game of football, defied convention by picking up the ball and crossing the field with it. This historic moment marked the genesis of rugby, breaking the established rules of the game at that time.
Fast forward to the present day, where the creative minds behind the Rugby World Cup 2023 Opening Ceremony have chosen to honor this tradition of breaking the mold. In a departure from the usual ceremony standards, they aim to tell a story deeply rooted in French culture.
Led by the talented Jean Dujardin, known for his acting prowess and co-writing contributions to the ceremony, a diverse ensemble of approximately thirty individuals embodying France's rich culture and world-renowned art de vivre will take center stage.
These distinguished guests of honor hail from various artistic disciplines, including film, music, dance, urban culture, gastronomy, and craftsmanship. Together, they will mesmerize the 80,000 spectators at the Stade de France and millions of TV viewers with a poetic and vibrant journey through a narrative of romance and brotherhood.
The cast's talents will be augmented by a supporting ensemble of 44 professional artists, including dancers and acrobats, alongside an impressive 240 volunteers. In the spirit of celebrated filmmaker Jacques Tati, the story they will unfold pays tribute not only to rugby but also to the values it embodies. It's an ode to the unique essence that makes France an exceptional place.
The choreography for this magnificent spectacle is the work of Grichka Caruge, who serves as the first assistant director, choreographer, and even a performer in the show. The acrobatic sequences are under the direction of Vivien Loulou, and all participants will dazzle in costumes designed by the talented Lili Kendaka.
Conceived by a trio of visionaries, namely Jean Dujardin (co-writer and male lead), Olivier Ferracci (co-writer, designer, and director), and Nora Matthey de l'Endroit (co-writer, artistic director, and director), this Opening Ceremony is a visually stunning and elegant fresco. It's a portrayal of who we are and what unites us, underscored by humor and self-deprecation, setting the stage for the thrilling Rugby World Cup 2023.
The Opening Ceremony Cast
Main Actors: Jean Dujardin, Grichka Caruge, Alice Renavand, Philippe Lacheau, Vianney, Adriana Karembeu, Eric Massot.
Guests of Honor: Yves Camdeborde, Juan Arbelaez, Yann Arthus-Bertrand, Pierre Augé, Maïtena Biraben, Matthieu Bisquey, Bertrand Bluy, Christelle Brua, Julien Camdeborde, Pascal Campourcy, Amandine Chaignot, Christian Constant, Lenaïg Corson, Ramuntxo Courdé, Bruno Doucet, Julien Duboué, Joël Dupuch, Christian Etchebest, Jean-Pierre Genet, Pierre Hermé, Charlotte Langrand, Mathieu Mandard, Sébastien Pradal, Eric Ospital, Jean-Michel Sanles, Guy Savoy, Charlotte Sénat, Patrick Serrière, Marc Tournier, Thierry Wasser.
Performers: Zaz, Vincent Peirani.
Intrigued spectators can anticipate an unforgettable journey through French culture and rugby history as the Opening Ceremony promises to captivate hearts and set the stage for the thrilling Rugby World Cup 2023.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
As the curtains fall on the first weekend of the 10th Men's Rugby World Cup, the France 2023 Organising Committee stands at the helm of a thrilling and memorable start to this prestigious sporting event. With matches that have enthralled audiences across the globe, the tournament's kickoff has been nothing short of spectacular.
A Resounding Thank You to Fans
The France 2023 Organising Committee extends its heartfelt gratitude to the passionate French and international fans who breathed life into this grand spectacle. Their unwavering support and infectious enthusiasm have set the stage for what promises to be a historic tournament.
Electric Atmosphere Across Official Venues
From the magnificent stadiums to the vibrant Rugby Villages, the electric atmosphere of the tournament has been palpable. The stadiums played host to more than 220,000 spectators, all eager to witness the magic of rugby in its finest form during the first eight matches. In the Rugby Villages, over 140,000 enthusiasts gathered to witness the opening clash between France and New Zealand. These moments of unbridled emotion and celebration have reverberated throughout the host cities.
Warm Welcome in Team Base Camps
The tournament's spirit of camaraderie extended beyond the stadiums. The Team Base Camps, serving as the homes of the qualified teams during the competition, radiated warmth and hospitality. Local supporters welcomed the players with open arms, creating an environment that encapsulated the true essence of rugby – unity and friendship.
Addressing Challenges Head-On
While the tournament witnessed moments of sheer excitement, there were also challenges that demanded swift solutions. Delays in stadium access for ticket holders in Marseille and, to a lesser extent, in Bordeaux on Saturday temporarily marred the fan experience. However, the France 2023 Organising Committee, in collaboration with local authorities, transport operators, and internal security forces, promptly implemented corrective measures. These actions bore fruit on Sunday, ensuring that all matches were played in a secure environment with seamless access to the venues, ultimately enhancing the fan experience.
A Glimpse into the Future
With the excitement of the first weekend still fresh in our memories, we eagerly await the next round of Rugby World Cup 2023 matches. The action continues on Thursday, September 14th, with a riveting Pool A match between France and Uruguay. As the tournament progresses, the world will be treated to more breathtaking moments, fierce competition, and an undying love for the sport of rugby.
The France 2023 Rugby World Cup has set the stage for a spectacle that will be etched in the annals of sporting history, and we invite fans from around the world to join us on this remarkable journey. The best is yet to come!
[Submitted by Estea Rademeyer]
In a dazzling display of rugby brilliance, the reigning champions, South Africa, opened their Rugby World Cup title defense with a resounding 18-3 victory over Scotland in a captivating showdown that had fans on the edge of their seats. The pulse-quickening clash took place in the enchanting city of Marseille, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling tournament.
A Battle of Titans
The Springboks, featuring 14 of the formidable squad that triumphed over England in the 2019 final, faced a tenacious Scottish side that refused to yield easily. The early exchanges were characterized by fierce physicality and uncompromising defense, with both teams vying for supremacy.
Libbok's Grace Under Pressure
Manie Libbok, the Springbok hero of the day, showcased nerves of steel as he calmly slotted two crucial penalties in the first half. His precise kicking would prove instrumental in the final outcome of the match. Speaking of his stunning performance, Libbok humbly remarked, "I’m just stoked that the first step went the way it did. I’m grateful for my forwards to give me the platform. I saw the space out wide so I went there. I’m pleased it came off."
Scotland's Grit and Determination
Scotland, led by their fearless coach Gregor Townsend, exhibited formidable defensive prowess in the initial stages of the game. Townsend praised his team's resilience, saying, "We defended well in the first half, we then grew into the game and the set-piece." Scotland's supporters, a vocal and passionate bunch, cheered their team on with fervor, creating an electrifying atmosphere within the stadium.
A Game-Changing Second Half
The turning point of the match arrived early in the second half when the indomitable Pieter-Steph du Toit and the lightning-fast Kurt-Lee Arendse struck with two sensational tries within three minutes. Du Toit's sheer power and Arendse's electrifying pace left the Scottish defense in disarray, turning the tide decisively in favor of the Springboks.
Libbok's Stunning Cross-Kick
Manie Libbok's crowning moment of genius came with a perfectly executed cross-kick that set up Kurt-Lee Arendse's try, effectively dashing Scotland's hopes of a comeback. The precision and vision displayed in this crucial play left spectators in awe and secured South Africa's commanding lead.
Majestic Scrum Power
The Springboks showcased their renowned scrummaging prowess, further solidifying their reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the set piece. Zander Fagerson felt the brunt of their might, penalized for a collapsed scrum, which further tilted the scales in South Africa's favor.
A Historic Victory
This victory marked the first time South Africa has won their opening match at a World Cup since 2011, a testament to their determination and ambition. The Springboks, unyielding and relentless, extended their winning streak over Scotland to eight, maintaining an impeccable record against their Scottish counterparts outside of Scotland.
A Promising Start to the Journey
As the sun bathed the Stade Vélodrome in its golden glow, Jacques Nienaber's formidable team played the long game, ultimately asserting their dominance. The triumph over Scotland for the third time at the World Cup pool phase has set the tone for a remarkable journey ahead.
In the heart of Marseille, under the gaze of passionate fans, South Africa's Rugby World Cup title defense has begun with a resounding declaration of intent. The Springboks are on a quest for a historic fourth World Cup title, and if this performance is any indication, they are poised to leave an indelible mark on the tournament. Rugby enthusiasts around the world, fasten your seatbelts—this is just the beginning of an epic saga!
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
In a momentous Rugby World Cup (RWC) opener, the Springboks are gearing up to face Scotland in Marseille this Sunday. The South African squad, led by coach Jacques Nienaber, boasts a settled lineup with Faf de Klerk, the scrumhalf maestro, earning his 50th Test cap – a remarkable milestone in his illustrious career.
De Klerk is among the eleven players who have retained their starting positions from the team's historic victory over New Zealand just two weeks ago. Coach Nienaber has made subtle adjustments to the roster for this pivotal match, set to unfold in what rugby enthusiasts have dubbed "the pool of death."
The stakes are high, with Scotland holding the fifth spot in the world rankings, the Springboks at number two, and Ireland, another contender in the same pool, holding the top position. In this fiercely competitive environment, only two teams will secure a spot in the quarter-finals, while Tonga and Romania await their challengers.
Notable changes in the Springbok lineup include Jasper Wiese taking over the No 8 position, with Duane Vermeulen moving to the bench. In the backline, Damian de Allende and Jesse Kriel unite in the midfield, and the dynamic Cheslin Kolbe returns as the left-wing, replacing Makazole Mapimpi.
Injury niggles have ruled out two players, utility back Canan Moodie and lock Jean Kleyn, from contention.
The Springbok bench leans towards a six-two split in favor of the forwards. Impact players such as Bongi Mbonambi, Ox Nche, Trevor Nyakane, RG Snyman, Marco van Staden, and Duane Vermeulen have been named among the reserves. Grant Williams and Willie le Roux provide crucial backline cover.
Coach Nienaber expressed confidence in the squad's depth, emphasizing its suitability for the task at hand: "We are pleased with the squad depth we have built in the last few months, and we believe this group of players strikes the right balance to achieve the result we need against Scotland."
The anticipation for the RWC opener is palpable, with Nienaber highlighting the team's readiness and the challenge they face: "We've been working hard in the last few weeks to make sure we are as prepared as possible going into this match and we are fully aware of the challenge that awaits us."
Nienaber also lauded Faf de Klerk for reaching the 50-test cap milestone and acknowledged his pivotal role in the team's success: "Earning 50 Test caps is a massive achievement, and to mark that feat in the opening game of the Rugby World Cup makes it very special. Faf has been a key member of our team for a few years, so we are delighted for him."
Expectations are high for a closely contested battle against Scotland, with Nienaber underlining the need for the Springboks to find their rhythm swiftly, given Scotland's formidable pack and skilled backline.
The history between the two sides in recent years favors the Springboks, with victories in 2018 and 2021. However, this RWC encounter promises to be a thrilling contest.
Kick-off for the match is scheduled for 17h45 and will be broadcast live on SuperSport.
Springbok Starting Lineup:
Springbok team to face Scotland in Marseille:
15 – Damian Willemse (DHL Stormers) – 33 caps, 41 points (3t, 4c, 4pg, 2dg)
14 – Kurt-Lee Arendse (Vodacom Bulls) – 10 caps, 55 points (11t)
13 – Jesse Kriel (Canon Eagles) – 62 caps, 70 points (14t)
12 – Damian de Allende (Wild Knights) – 73 caps, 50 points (10t)
11 – Cheslin Kolbe (Suntory Sungoliath) – 26 caps, 81 points (12t, 3c, 5pg)
10 – Manie Libbok (DHL Stormers) – 9 caps, 65 points (1t, 21c, 6pg)
9 – Faf de Klerk (Canon Eagles) – 49 caps, 44 points (5t, 2c, 5pg)
8 – Jasper Wiese (Leicester Tigers) – 23 caps, 5 points (1t)
7 – Pieter-Steph du Toit (Toyota Verblitz) – 71 caps, 35 points (7t)
6 – Siya Kolisi (captain, Racing 92) – 77 caps, 50 points (10t)
5 – Franco Mostert (Honda Heat) – 67 caps, 15 points (3t)
4 – Eben Etzebeth (Hollywoodbets Sharks) – 113 caps, 25 points (5t)
3 – Frans Malherbe (DHL Stormers) – 63 caps, 5 points (1t)
2 – Malcolm Marx (Kubota Spears) – 63 caps, 85 points (17t)
1 – Steven Kitshoff (Ulster) – 76 caps, 10 points (2t)
Replacements:
16 – Bongi Mbonambi (Hollywoodbets Sharks) – 62 caps, 65 points (13t)
17 – Ox Nche (Hollywoodbets Sharks) – 21 caps, 0 points
18 – Trevor Nyakane (Racing 92) – 62 caps, 5 points (1t)
19 – RG Snyman (Munster) – 28 caps, 5 points (1t)
20 – Marco van Staden (Vodacom Bulls) – 14 caps, 0 points
21 – Duane Vermeulen (SA Rugby) – 70 caps, 15 points (3t)
22 – Grant Williams (Hollywoodbets Sharks) – 5 caps, 0 points
23 – Willie le Roux (Vodacom Bulls) – 87 caps, 65 points (13t)
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
The Australian cricket team has unveiled its starting lineup for the highly anticipated first One Day International (ODI) match against South Africa, set to take place in Bloemfontein on Thursday, September 7. This clash promises to be an electrifying encounter, as both teams gear up for a thrilling series.
In a strategic move, the Australian tourists have opted to field two spinners in their starting eleven. Notably, the squad also includes both of their designated wicketkeepers selected for the upcoming World Cup.
All-rounder extraordinaire Mitchell Marsh has been entrusted with the captaincy role, leading the team in the absence of Pat Cummins. Marsh's recent performance in the T20I series was nothing short of spectacular, amassing an impressive total of 186 runs in just three matches, including two outstanding half-centuries and a high score of 92 not out.
The explosive opening batsman, David Warner, returns to action after a well-deserved rest during the T20I series. Warner will join forces at the top of the order with Travis Head. The crucial middle-order positions will be manned by the dual keeper-batters, Alex Carey and Josh Inglis, while Cameron Green and Marcus Stoinis are expected to slot into the fourth and seventh positions, respectively.
Warner's return has led to a change in Marsh's batting plans. He expressed his willingness to take on the middle-order role, recognizing Warner as a legendary figure in one-day and white-ball cricket. Marsh emphasized this point, stating, "I expect to bat in the middle order. Things may change, but Davey is literally one of the GOATs of one-day cricket and white-ball cricket in general. We have Travis Head and Australia's best-ever all-three-format player there, so I dare say I probably won't be opening the batting."
The Australian squad is riding high on confidence after a triumphant sweep of the T20I series, securing a 3-0 victory. However, the Proteas will not be easily shaken, boasting their first-choice lineup, including Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Kagiso Rabada, and Quinton de Kock.
Australia's Starting XI for the 1st ODI Against South Africa:
David Warner
Travis Head
Mitch Marsh (c)
Cameron Green
Josh Inglis
Alex Carey
Marcus Stoinis
Sean Abbott
Ashton Agar
Josh Hazlewood
Adam Zampa
In addition to revealing their starting lineup, the Australian selectors have also finalized their 15-player squad for the upcoming 2023 World Cup. Notably, Nathan Ellis, Tanveer Sangha, and Aaron Hardie missed the cut. The five-time World Cup champions are poised to engage in five ODIs against South Africa, followed by an additional three against India, setting the stage for an action-packed cricketing season.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
PARIS - The Rugby World Cup 2023 is off to an eco-conscious start as New Zealand's All Blacks set an example by choosing a low-carbon travel option for their opening game against France. The team traveled from Lyon to Paris in under two hours aboard the TGV, a high-speed train, as part of France's commitment to reduce carbon emissions during the tournament.
This move towards sustainable transportation is expected to be replicated by all participating teams, with organizers planning a total of 70 train journeys. Uruguay, for instance, will take the train from Avignon to Lille before their clash with France on Thursday, September 14.
In an impressive display of environmental responsibility, 88 percent of fans attending the matches will also opt for train travel. Those arriving at train stations on match days will be greeted by a special message from France's captain and SNCF ambassador, Antoine Dupont.
At select stations, including the Gare de Lyon, a crystal box will project a hologram of Dupont, adding a touch of innovation to the experience. Giant screens around the stations will broadcast the games, ensuring that fans don't miss a moment of the action.
To accommodate the influx of spectators on match days, 35 additional trains will operate between Saint-Étienne and Lyon. This collective effort to transport teams and fans via train is estimated to reduce carbon emissions by an impressive 50 percent.
Michel Pousseau, the Tournament Director for World Rugby at RWC 2023, emphasized the goal of setting an example for sustainability within the world of rugby. "We want rugby to set an example and for low-carbon mobility to be one of the intangible legacies of this competition," he stated.
Both World Rugby and the organizing committee France 2023 are signatories to the United Nations 'Sports for Climate Action' working group. As part of their commitment to the environment, World Rugby has set a target of achieving a 50 percent reduction in emissions by 2030.
This commitment to sustainability was factored into the development of the tournament's match schedule, ensuring optimal timing for teams and fans. Additionally, base camps were strategically chosen to minimize the carbon footprint. For example, England, with two games in Lille, has established its base camp in Le Touquet.
The majority of carbon emissions generated during a Rugby World Cup typically result from transportation, especially air travel, as teams and fans converge from all corners of the globe. With this eco-conscious approach to travel, the Rugby World Cup 2023 aims to lead the way in promoting responsible environmental practices within the world of sports.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
KARACHI: Sidra Ameen stood tall with the bat, smashing a third career fifty, to help guide Pakistan to a seven-wicket victory and a 2-0 lead in the T20 International (T20I) series against the Proteas Women at the National Stadium in Karachi on Sunday.
The opening batter dispatched six fours and a six on her way to a 44-ball 61 as the hosts successfully chased down South Africa’s first innings total of 150/3, which featured leading contributions from openers Tazmin Brits (46) and Laura Wolvaardt (41).
Similar to the opening encounter, Pakistan won the toss and sent the visitors into bat, with Brits and Wolvaardt setting an ideal partnership worth 74 runs for the first wicket before the latter was the first to fall after looking to be the aggressor, with Nashra Sandhu (1/24) claiming the breakthrough scalp.
With the combination of a slower deck compared to the first T20I as well as disciplined bowling from the home side, Brits and all-rounder Marizanne Kapp (26) battled to keep the scoreboard ticking as they put on 37 runs for the second wicket before Brits was eventually dismissed for a 48-ball 46 to leave the Proteas 111/2 in the 17th over.
Although Kapp was dismissed just two overs later, an electric cameo from all-rounder Nadine de Klerk (21), which included 13 runs in the final over, helped South Africa reach a commendable total of 150/3 after their allotted overs.
Iqbal was Pakistan’s pick of the bowlers, ending with figures of 1/22 in her four overs.
With the bat, the hosts picked up where they left off from the first game and despite losing opener Shawaal Zulfiqar (4) early on, Pakistan took control of the contest through Ameen and former captain Bismah Maroof (27) with a 68-run stand to help propel the subcontinent outfit to 91/2 in the 13th over.
Despite both batters being sent back to the dugout in quick succession, with spinners Nonkululeko Mlaba (2/20) and Delmi Tucker (1/24) picking up the vital wickets, Pakistan refused to let their foot off the gas as Aliya Riaz (31*) and Mubeena Ali (26*) combined well to take their team over the line.
The pair put on a match-winning, 54-run partnership for the fourth wicket to seal a momentous win and secure an unassailable 2-0 series lead with five balls to spare and one match to play, which takes place on Monday, 04 September from 19h30 local time (16h30 SAST) at the same venue.
Fixtures - South Africa Tour to Pakistan 2023/24:
T20I Series:
Monday, 04 September 2023 @ 16h30 SAST - 3rd T20I - Pakistan vs South Africa (National Stadium, Karachi)
ODI Series:
Friday, 08 September 2023 @ 12h30 SAST - 1st ODI - Pakistan vs South Africa (National Stadium, Karachi)
Monday, 11 September 2023 @ 12h30 SAST - 2nd ODI - Pakistan vs South Africa (National Stadium, Karachi)
Thursday, 14 September 2023 @ 12h30 SAST - 3rd ODI - Pakistan vs South Africa (National Stadium, Karachi)
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
In a scorching display of T20 firepower, Travis Head has ignited a blazing selection battle that's set to sizzle the cricketing world. The stage is set, the stakes are high, and the Australian cricket fraternity is abuzz with anticipation as the charismatic Head's explosive 91 off just 48 balls tore apart the South African bowling attack on a glorious Sunday in Durban. With his pyrotechnics, Head led the Australian side to a resounding 3-0 T20I series sweep of the Proteas.
Now, the cricketing conundrum begins: Who will seize the coveted opening slots for Australia at the upcoming one-day international World Cup in India? The competition is fierce, with the illustrious Mitch Marsh and the renowned David Warner vying for the top-order berth alongside Head.
Head's scintillating innings has undoubtedly propelled him into the spotlight, making him a front-runner in this selection showdown. Yet, Captain Marsh, who has been in sublime form and was named the player of the T20 series, is poised to throw his hat into the ring as well. It's an audition of epic proportions as Australia faces South Africa in what can only be described as a World Cup dress rehearsal.
The return of the indomitable David Warner further adds a layer of intrigue to this captivating narrative. Warner, who formed an iconic partnership with the now-retired Aaron Finch at the pinnacle of the Australian batting order, is eager to reclaim his position as the opening maestro. However, Marsh and Head's red-hot form had previously pushed Warner down the order to No.4 during Australia's clash with India in March.
Michael Di Venuto, the astute assistant coach, acknowledges the wealth of options at hand, stating, "There's lots of options for us moving forward opening the batting. If you look at the World Cup, David Warner comes back into the mix, Mitch Marsh, Travis Head. They've all got good form recently that they can all put a case forward to open the batting at the World Cup."
Warner, a stalwart of Australian cricket with 142 ODI appearances under his belt, is facing an unusual challenge to his established role. Marsh and Head's compelling cases, driven by their recent prowess with the willow, have redefined the landscape of Australia's top-order selection.
With only eight matches remaining to prepare for the ODI World Cup in India, the five encounters against South Africa, coupled with a three-match series in India, serve as the ultimate proving grounds. The absence of star batsman Steve Smith due to a wrist injury and the unavailability of paceman Mitchell Starc with a groin issue has opened doors for new talents like Marnus Labuschagne, who earned a late call-up as a potential replacement for Smith at No.4.
Australia's recent victory in the final T20 match against South Africa, secured by five wickets, was a testament to the brutal run chase orchestrated by Travis Head. His career-high score, a blistering 91 off 48 balls, left South Africa in awe. Supported by the explosive Josh Inglis (42 off 22) and the unyielding Marcus Stoinis (37 off 21 not out), Head's six sixes and eight fours in his innings were nothing short of a spectacle. A life offered by Temba Bavuma at 55 was a mere hiccup in his thunderous march.
Head, who had modest scores of 18 and 6 in the preceding T20 matches, has sounded a warning bell for South Africa ahead of the impending five-match ODI series commencing on September 7.
Earlier in the match, Australian paceman Sean Abbott emerged as the hero with career-best figures of 4-31. A stumbling South African start at 2-12 was aided by Marcus Stoinis, who scalped the wickets of Temba Bavuma (0) and debutant Matthew Breetzke (5).
While handy knocks from captain Aiden Markram (41 off 23) and Reeza Hendricks (42 off 30) steered South Africa's ship, the late fireworks were provided by Donovan Ferreira (48 off 21 balls) after a middle-order slump.
However, the spellbinding moment of the match belonged to Australian legspinner Tanveer Sangha, who, despite the midriff-stricken heroics of Hendricks, found the base of leg stump with some force but couldn't dislodge the bail. Sangha's talent, though, remained on display as he eventually ended with figures of 4-31.
A middle-order collapse of 3-6, including a double-wicket maiden from Abbott, saw South Africa plummet to 6-122. Yet, debutant Ferreira's scorching performance, featuring five sixes and one four, steered the Proteas back on course.
Abbott's four-wicket haul, which included the pivotal wicket of Markram, left an indelible mark on the match. Stoinis (2-39) and Sangha (1-39) played their parts, but Nathan Ellis (0-50) faced the brunt of South Africa's counterattack, especially when Donovan Ferreira unleashed his full force upon the Aussie bowlers.
In the world of cricket, where legends are forged and destinies are decided, the battle for Australia's opening slots has just taken center stage. The countdown to the ODI World Cup in India has begun, and the cricketing world watches with bated breath as the drama unfolds. Who will emerge as the ultimate torchbearer for Australia at the pinnacle of limited-overs cricket? The answer, my friends, lies on the horizon, awaiting a grand unveiling!
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
